Innovative Workforce Incentive Program helps schools establish industry-recognized credentials programs

9/13/2021

The Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation and Ohio Department of Education announced the list of industry-recognized credentials eligible to qualify for $34 million in incentive payments and startup grant funds under the Innovative Workforce Incentive Program. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly developed the program to create more opportunities for students to earn in-demand, industry-recognized credentials. 

The program includes $9 million in the state’s two-year budget for grants to assist school districts, community schools, joint vocational schools and STEM schools in establishing credential programs to prepare students for careers in priority industry sectors. The grant application window is open now. Schools can begin applying for a share of the funding via the state’s Comprehensive Continuous Improvement Plan (CCIP) grant application process until Oct. 17. Access the CCIP through the OHꟾID portal.

School districts also are eligible to receive a share of $25 million over the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 state budget to encourage the start of additional credential programs. Under this program, schools can receive $1,250 for each qualifying credential a student earns.

More information about the Innovative Workforce Incentive Program, including the qualifying industry-recognized credentials, is available here.